European Football Archives - Page 2 of 2

Celtic Ready to Test Themselves Against Champions Chelsea: A Night of Passion and Rivalry at Celtic Park

As Celtic prepare for their crucial Champions League clash against Chelsea on Wednesday, head coach Elena Sadiku and Scotland forward Erin Cuthbert have shared their thoughts on what promises to be a fiercely competitive match. Here are some of the key insights they offered ahead of the game. Sadiku: “A Bigger Test Than This? I Don’t Think So Elena Sadiku acknowledges the scale of the challenge Celtic face against Chelsea, reigning Women’s Super League champions. “I don’t think we’re going to have a bigger test than this,” Sadiku remarked, underscoring her respect for Chelsea’s strengths and capabilities. But respect goes beyond Chelsea’s players alone; Sadiku also has a deep admiration for Chelsea’s head coach, Sonia Bompastor, saying, “how she’s perceived as a coach is how I want to be perceived.” This personal aspiration adds a layer of intensity to the upcoming encounter as Celtic aim to prove themselves on a stage of this magnitude. Growth Through the Competition Reflecting on Celtic’s Champions League journey so far, Sadiku believes her team has shown steady improvement. She pointed to the contrast between their performances against Twente in the opener and Real Madrid in their second game, saying, “Against Real Madrid, we were confident enough to play, we got pressure on, we love the pressure, and we just showed no fear in what we want to do.” Celtic’s progression and self-assurance suggest they’re embracing the challenges, growing stronger as they move through the competition. Support at Celtic Park: A Historic Night This game marks the first time Celtic’s women’s team will play a Champions League match at Celtic Park, an occasion Sadiku hopes fans won’t miss. She urged, “If you’re a Celtic fan, you should support the big history the club are creating.” The atmosphere in the iconic stadium will be critical as Celtic look to rally their fans for a historic night. Injury Update: Two Absentees Defender Hana Kerner and forward Kit Loferski are confirmed absentees for Wednesday’s match, while Caitlin Hayes, who missed the last two games, is expected to return. Sadiku addressed recent speculation surrounding Hayes’ absence, clarifying that she’s simply been “resting,” dispelling any rumours of suspension. Erin Cuthbert: Thriving in a ‘Hostile’ Environment Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Erin Cuthbert, who will be returning to Glasgow for the match, is fully aware that she might not receive a warm welcome. Coming from a family of Rangers supporters, the Scotland international knows the Celtic crowd will be less than welcoming but welcomes the challenge. “As a football player, see if you get a bit of a hostile reception, I think it’s the best thing,” Cuthbert said, unfazed by the prospect. Cuthbert’s confidence in handling tough crowds comes from experience: “We’ve played at the Emirates many times… we’re used to playing in big games where there is an atmosphere, and the opposition wants to make it as difficult as possible.” This resilience has been central to her development from a young player working at Morrison’s to a key figure in one of the world’s biggest clubs. Head coach Sonia Bompastor describes her as “a leader,” and Cuthbert herself sees this return to Glasgow as a moment of reflection. “It’s a moment to reflect on how far I’ve come, but also how much work I’ve still got to do and how far I can go.” Celtic vs Chelsea: A Battle of Belief and Growth As both sides gear up for this Champions League showdown, Celtic will look to demonstrate their growth and grit against a Chelsea side hungry for victory. With Sadiku’s admiration for her counterpart and Cuthbert’s resilience, Wednesday night promises an unforgettable spectacle at Celtic Park. Fans can expect a display of ambition, rivalry, and the enduring passion of Scottish football.

November 13, 2024

Celtic Away Day Guide: GNK Dinamo Zagreb

For the Celtic faithful heading to Zagreb on 10 December, here’s a guide on where to stay, eat, and soak up the atmosphere before the big match against GNK Dinamo Zagreb. This city offers a blend of history, local flavours, and lively culture, so there’s plenty to enjoy alongside the football! A Snapshot of GNK Dinamo Zagreb and Stadion Maksimir Founded in 1945, GNK Dinamo Zagreb is Croatia’s most successful club, winning numerous league titles and regularly appearing in European competitions. They play at Stadion Maksimir, an iconic 35,000-seat venue known for its loud and intense atmosphere. Dinamo’s ultras, the Bad Blue Boys, are particularly passionate, creating an energy that can be both impressive and intimidating for visiting fans. Expect a lively setting with high security, especially in the away section. Where to Stay Hotel Esplanade Zagreb This historic hotel, near Zagreb’s main train station, is one of the city’s grandest places to stay. Built in 1925, it blends Art Deco style with modern luxury, making it perfect if you’re looking to indulge and stay close to top attractions. Canopy by Hilton Zagreb A stylish choice that mixes local flair with modern comfort, Canopy by Hilton is centrally located and offers a trendy, relaxed atmosphere with a focus on Croatian decor and food. Great for fans looking for both comfort and local charm. Hostel Shappy For budget-conscious fans, Hostel Shappy is located right in the heart of the city, providing affordable and lively accommodation with a welcoming vibe for travellers and fans alike. Top Spots to Eat and Drink La Štruk Located near Zagreb’s main square, La Štruk serves traditional Croatian strukli—a local speciality of cheese-filled dough baked to perfection. It’s a must-try and a convenient, hearty meal before or after the match. Craft Room Popular among locals and visitors alike, Craft Room is a cosy pub offering a great selection of Croatian craft beers and pub-style bites. Perfect for a casual pre-match drink. Mali Bar If you’re in the mood for something more modern, Mali Bar provides a creative take on Croatian cuisine, with seasonal dishes and small plates. This trendy spot is ideal for fans looking to sample Croatian flavours in a lively atmosphere. Vinodol For those wanting a proper sit-down meal, Vinodol serves classic Mediterranean and Croatian dishes with locally sourced ingredients. Known for its delicious meat and seafood options, it’s a favourite for those wanting a more refined pre-game meal. Things to Do in Zagreb Explore Gornji Grad (Upper Town) Wander through the historic cobbled streets of Gornji Grad, where you’ll find landmarks like St. Mark’s Church with its iconic tiled roof. The area also has charming cafes and some of the best views of the city. Check Out Dolac Market Zagreb’s central market is bustling with local vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, and traditional foods. It’s a great spot to get a feel for Zagreb’s everyday life and maybe pick up a snack for later. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships This quirky museum, filled with mementos and stories from around the world, is a unique experience. It’s a popular stop in Zagreb, offering an unusual and often humorous take on human connections. Matchday Essentials Tickets: Check with Celtic’s official site for details on away tickets, as Stadion Maksimir usually fills up quickly for European fixtures. Getting There: Stadion Maksimir is around 3km from the city centre. Trams 4, 7, and 11 will take you close to the stadium, and they run frequently on matchdays. Aim to arrive early, as the trams can get busy. Stadium Tips: The home fans are known for their spirited support, so be mindful when travelling to and from the game. Away fans have designated sections, so follow directions from security and stay together for a smooth experience. With great food, lively culture, and intense football passion, Zagreb promises an unforgettable away day for Celtic fans.

November 10, 2024

Bundesliga Side Heidenheim Prevails Over Hearts in a Heated Tynecastle Clash

Heidenheim continued their flawless run in the Conference League, edging past Hearts in an intense atmosphere at Tynecastle and putting an end to the Edinburgh side’s unbeaten streak in the competition. Despite their struggles in the Scottish Premiership, where they sit second from bottom, Hearts dominated the first half against their German visitors but were unable to break the deadlock. It took nearly an hour of sustained pressure from Hearts before Heidenheim found the breakthrough. Sirlord Conteh opened the scoring for Frank Schmidt’s side, guiding a header past Craig Gordon after a swift counterattack. Hearts’ push for an equaliser lacked sharpness, and in a near-identical play, Jan Schoppner extended Heidenheim’s lead, silencing the fervent home crowd. Before the goals, Hearts showed resilience and flashes of quality. Craig Gordon’s weak punch nearly allowed Lennard Maloney to score, but Malachi Boateng’s quick intervention cleared the ball off the line, preserving Gordon’s clean sheet on his 300th club appearance—at least for the first half. It was an almost perfect opening half for Hearts, marked by energy, bravery, and some clever play. The only missing piece was the goal. Lawrence Shankland, who’s only found the net once this season, came close on a few occasions, while Blair Spittal and James Penrice missed shots from promising positions. Ultimately, Hearts walked away empty-handed for the first time in the tournament, while Heidenheim’s fairytale season continues to unfold, with this victory in Edinburgh as another impressive chapter. Missed Opportunities for Hearts European fixtures have offered some relief to Hearts amid a disappointing domestic start that sees them struggling at the bottom of the Premiership table. They stayed true to that trend with a high-energy first half, where they stretched Heidenheim across the field. Penrice and Yan Dhanda were particularly effective down the left, repeatedly driving down to the byline and pulling Heidenheim out of shape. Critchley’s team kept up a high line and piled on the attacks, yet lacked the clinical touch when it mattered most. This has become a recurring theme for Shankland, who seems weighed down by expectations. Last season, he seemed to turn every chance into a goal; now, he’s struggling to hit the target. If Shankland isn’t scoring, Hearts are left looking for answers up front. Heidenheim’s Remarkable Journey Hits New Heights When Hearts first drew Heidenheim, few fans in Gorgie knew much about the Bundesliga newcomers. But as matchday approached, talk of their rise from the second tier to the Bundesliga last season began to make waves among Hearts supporters. Known for defying odds rather than bowing to high expectations, Heidenheim appeared somewhat unsettled by the Tynecastle crowd and the fast pace Hearts set in the first half. However, they held their ground, regrouped at the break, and emerged with renewed composure and precision. The German side’s second-half performance showcased a calm ruthlessness that Hearts could only aspire to replicate. Both goals reflected the kind of efficiency and speed that has defined Heidenheim’s unexpected rise. From relative obscurity, Heidenheim has now caught the attention of the Scottish football community as they sit comfortably on track for the Conference League play-offs.

November 7, 2024

Kuhn’s Double Inspires Celtic’s Dominant 3-1 Victory Over RB Leipzig in Champions League Classic

Celtic’s Champions League aspirations got a significant boost with a thrilling 3-1 victory over RB Leipzig, marking their second consecutive home win in the tournament. Nicolas Kuhn shone with a first-half brace, overturning an early Leipzig lead and setting Celtic on course for the win. RB Leipzig struck first when Christophe Baumgartner headed in from close range, seizing on a defensive slip. But Celtic responded decisively as Kuhn levelled with a beautiful, curling shot that clipped the post. Minutes later, he expertly finished Greg Taylor’s cross, sending Celtic into halftime with a 2-1 lead. The atmosphere at Celtic Park was electric, and it only intensified after the break. Reo Hatate capitalised on an error by Leipzig’s keeper, Peter Gulacsi, who failed to clear Alistair Johnston’s cross. Hatate pounced, making it 3-1 and putting the game out of reach. Celtic’s attack continued to push Leipzig’s defence, with Daizen Maeda finding the net in stoppage time, though it was disallowed for offside. Kuhn, who joined Celtic from Leipzig’s youth ranks after spells in Ajax, Bayern Munich, and Rapid Vienna, was instrumental throughout, showcasing both his attacking flair and defensive contributions. With this win, Celtic are now on seven points from four games, keeping them well-positioned for the knockout stages.

November 5, 2024

Preview: Celtic v RB Leipzig

Celtic Host RB Leipzig in Crucial Champions League Clash As Celtic continue to dominate domestic football, they welcome a RB Leipzig side desperate for their first win in Europe. Team Form RB Leipzig A 2-1 loss to Dortmund at the weekend put a dampener on Leipzig’s otherwise impressive Bundesliga campaign. Currently sitting second behind Bayern Munich, they have won six of their last eight matches, including a victory over champions Bayer Leverkusen. Not as all-out attacking as in previous seasons, manager Marco Rose has favoured a more balanced approach. Their backline, featuring Hungary’s Willi Orban and Peter Gulacsi—names Scottish fans may remember—has kept six clean sheets in nine league games. However, Europe tells a different story for the German side. Three losses to Atletico Madrid (2-1), Juventus (3-2), and Liverpool (1-0) have left Leipzig in dire need of a result at Celtic Park. Despite leading against both Atletico and Juventus, they conceded late goals—including two to a Juventus side down to ten men for over half an hour. Celtic Celtic have been dominant in the league, but their Premiership supremacy came under slight question following a 2-2 draw with Aberdeen. That doubt was swiftly dismissed when they thumped the Dons 6-0 in the Scottish League Cup semi-final, with manager Brendan Rodgers still demanding more from his players despite the commanding lead. Despite their domestic form, Celtic will be wary of their last outing against German opposition, a 7-1 defeat to Dortmund, which highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. However, a goalless draw against Europa League champions Atalanta showed improvement, though Rodgers knows the team must continue to prove themselves against Europe’s strongest sides. Players to Watch Benjamin Sesko While his league form may not be as prolific as that of his strike partner Lois Openda, Sesko has consistently delivered in the Champions League, scoring all three of Leipzig’s goals in the competition so far. Standing at 6’5”, the Slovenian international is technically skilled and capable of powerful shots, making him a nightmare for defenders. Comfortable with both feet and strong in the air, Sesko also shares the team’s top spot for assists. If he and Openda can handle the atmosphere at Celtic Park, Leipzig will have no shortage of scoring opportunities. Adam Idah It’s been a challenging season for Idah, with only two league goals. However, he has a reputation as a big-game player, having scored a last-minute winner against Rangers in the Scottish Cup final. At 6’3”, Idah’s height could pose a threat to Leipzig’s defence, particularly in aerial duels. With Leipzig’s vulnerability in the air exposed against Dortmund, Rodgers may look to Idah—likely from the bench—to physically challenge Leipzig’s defenders and offer a different attacking dimension. Team News – Celtic: Full squad available. – RB Leipzig: Key defender Castello Lukeba, playmaker Xavi Simons, David Raum, and Xaver Schlager are all sidelined.

November 5, 2024

Pafos – The Mediterranean gem putting Cyprus’ new boys on the map

A town on the eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus is playing host to one of this years great European fairytales. Pafos FC are about to take their premier bow in Europe having qualified for the 2024/25 edition of the UEFA’s Conference League. We take a look at how they got there and just what makes Cyprus’ new boys and its home town an ideal awayday. Pafos FC – Who are they? The village of Paphos is 8th largest city in Cyprus and is a popular holidaying destination for British tourists, it would probably one of the last places you’d expect to find a gem of an away day. Pafos themselves are only a relatively new club at just 10 years old, founded in 2014. Pafos FC play their home games at the Stadio Stelios Kyriakides with a small capacity of just under 10,000. In fact, the city itself is only around 36,000 people meaning the whole population would fill just over 2/3 of Hampden. They are managed by ex- PSG, Sevilla and Arsenal assistant Juan Carlos Carcedo. With a squad value of around £20 million they are valued higher than all Scottish clubs outside of the big two. Last season the club won the Cypriot cup slotting them in to Europa League QR1. An 8-2 aggregate defeat saw them drop in to the Conference. A run of games saw them stroll to the league phase, seeing off the likes of CSKA Sofia and Cluj comfortably. This year in the newly revised league phase they will face some tough opposition, with the likes of Astana Lugano and Fiorentina. This year they have successfully broken the status quo of dominance from APOEL Nicosia and even that of recent success of their capital neighbours Omonia. This is a guide to seaside holiday resort turned Cypriot away day. Where to stay? How to get there? Around a 5 hour flight from Glasgow or Edinburgh you will arrive in Paphos which enjoys around 340 days of sunshine a year. Flights are offered by the likes of EasyJet and Jet2. Flights are usually on the steep side for Europe with anything under £150-200 a rarity. Expect to pay a going rate of £300 for a hotel/apartment for the week. You can bookthrough a package holiday or arrange flights and accommodation separately. While there it is highly recommended to hire a car, this can be done at a far cheaper rate compared to other European countries hence why doing so is so popular there. From experience, this unlocks your ability to see far more than you otherwise would have. This will likely only set you back €120 for the week. Paphos and its closely situated neighbouring villages all make an ideal resting point for your away day. Paphos will give you the ideal bustling city feel and many hotels are situated close to the stadium itself which is within Paphos’ old town. My tip however would be to stay in either neighbouring villages. A €2 bus journey from the main bus terminal takes you to Coral Bay or Peyia. Coral Bay features stunning beaches with the highlight being a 10 year old ship wreck enabling some exciting photo opportunities. For a typically Greek Cypriot feel, Peyia offers this with small Tavernas offering some of the best cuisine like that of Moussaka, Gyros and of course Halloumi. While not exactly being as cheap as many eastern European nations like Hungary or Poland. Cyprus is still relatively affordable. A meal will set you back around £20pp and a pint will set you back on average around €4. English is vastly spoken on the Island with all road signs featuring English translations from Greek so don’t sweat if your Greek isn’t up to scratch. Cyprus – What is there to do outside of football… You would be forgiven for coming to the conclusion that due to a mass influx of British tourism that the island would be awashed with Irish bars and €1 pints. While this is very much the case it is well worth highlighting that there is far more to both Paphos and Cyprus than just this. As an ex-commonwealth nation, as you can imagine, Cyprus is steeped in politics both old and new. The island still plays host to two RAF bases within British annexes on the island. In addition to this, the lesser known Turkish sector of the Island cut off after the 1974 invasion is well worth a visit and is situated through the northern half of the capital Nicosia around a two hour drive north of Paphos. Furthermore, within the checkpoint between the Cypriot republic and the Turkish third lies an area known as “no mans land”, or the U.N’s “Green line”, which stretches the entire width of the country, is designed to segregate both sides. Untouched since that day in 1974, the area is as wide as a football pitch in the capital and as sparse as that of 180kms wide. For any history or politics buffs it is well worth experiencing.

October 22, 2024

European Football